Like most things in life, we can’t always have everything we want. And this is true with motorcycle helmets.
For instance, if you need to enjoy the wind on your face and raindrops on your cheeks while riding your motorcycle, an open helmet is the way to go.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for head protection, the full-face helmets are hard to pass.
Now, you must be wondering, “what if I need the quality of both in one?
Thank goodness modular helmets exist.
Offering a comprehensive full-face protection, with open-face convenience, a modular helmet is a compromise everyone can live with.
Also known as the flip-face or convertible helmets, the modular helmets offer the best of both worlds-they give you the comfort of an open-face helmet and protection of a full-face helmet. Grab a pair of stylish designer motorcycle gloves along with it and you will bring your A Game to the road!
But with plenty of options in the market, it can be a challenge to pick the right model for your needs.
Fortunately, in this review text, we’ve gathered some of the best modular helmets available in the market.
Helmet | Shell | Weight | BUY NOW |
---|---|---|---|
Composite Fiber Shell | 2.1 Lbs. | ||
Advanced Integrated Matrix Materials | 5.0 Lbs. | ||
LG Polycarbonate | 4.0 Lbs. | ||
Other Great Recommendations | |||
Polycarp | 5.0 Lbs. | ||
Polycarbonate/ABS Composite Shell | 5.5 Lbs. |
Top 5 Modular Helmets in The Market for The Money
HJC RPHA MAX Helmet - Editor’s Choice
If you take your ride seriously and are looking for the ultimate protective gear, you can never go wrong with the HJC RPHA MAX Helmet.
The HJC RPHA MAX Helmet is a top-of-the-line modular option offering excellent comfort and tremendous protection at the same time.
Features and Benefits
Design
HJC RPHA MAX Helmet is sleek and clean in appearance. For one, many riders agreed that the design and switchgear were upgraded, and the overall feel is more precise than the previous HJC models.
The helmet is compact and slimmer, meaning it fits more tightly on your head than it used to.
Now, as far as the color designs go, HJC RPHA MAX Helmet has several design colors to choose from. Unfortunately, it might not be the right option for those who need the overly bright and colorful helmets.
Safety-Shell Construction
The reason, this helmet is considered as among the toughest options in the market comes down to the material construction.
The shell on this model is from a blend of carbon fiber, fiberglass, aramid, and non-woven fabrics, which are durable and strong, offering the ultimate protection in case of a crash.
Lightweight
The weight factor can’t get better than what is offered by the HJC RPHA MAX Helmet.
Weighing less than 3 pounds, this modular helmet is among the lightest in the market, and won’t fatigue you even when worn for extended periods.
Visor
The face shield sits closer to your face, giving better horizontal visibility that you would’ve expected. Unfortunately, the vertical visibility isn’t great, but your vision is less likely to get disturbed by the face shield lever.
However, the biggest highlight to the face shield is the One-Touch Integrated SunShield that protects you from the UV rays and removes the need to wear sunglasses during the hot summer seasons.
To top it off, the RapidFire II shield replacement system lets you release the face shield in the event of an emergency.
Comfort
The COOL4EVER padding on the interior of the HJC RPHA MAX shell offers a comfortable wearing experience.
The padding is lightweight, soft, and has anti-bacterial and moisture-wick properties, meaning you get to enjoy the long ride on your motorcycle even in the hot summers.
Ventilation
There’re mixed opinions on the ventilation on this helmet.
But one thing is for sure, its obvious HJC has made quite an effort to ensure there’s proper routing for the breeze around the head, and for most riders, the Advanced Channeling Ventilation System does a decent job of keeping them cool.
Quiet
Most folks love how this helmet is quiet.
The wind tunnel design makes the helmet as slippery as possible.
Of course, it doesn’t rid away all the noise, and you’ll still experience slight rumble at speeds, but the noise level is acceptable, and equipment works well with no hearing issues.
Sizes
The helmet offers three different shell sizes, a contrast to other brands that only offer one or two sizes.
Definitely, the three sizes give plenty of sizing options for a better fit.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Proper ventilation
- Quiet
Cons
- Expensive
Check HJC RPHA MAX Helmet Price on Amazon
Shoei Neotec Helmet - Best Value
The Shoei Neotec Helmet is a careful evolution of Shoei flip-up helmets.
It's a premium option, offering a combination of solid feel, superior build quality, and outstanding ventilation.
It would be quite difficult to find fault with the Shoei Neotec Helmet, but there’s no getting around that the price is quite steep.
Features and Benefits
Design
The overall build quality is not like anything we’ve seen before-you can easily tell there’s something different about the helmet as soon as you lift it from the box.
It feels quite sturdy, as do all the other moving parts, with everything on the helmet working with precision.
Safety-Shell Design
Shoei put so much effort and time into building a masterpiece that will serve its purpose for many years to come while providing you with safety protection.
An all-around and protective helmet, the shell on this model is created from a multi-ply Matrix AIM shell and Dual-Layer EPS liner.
Both of these layers are durable, but more importantly, they're tough and will, therefore, increase your safety and protect you from the severe head injuries.
Ventilation and Aerodynamics
The ventilation system on this helmet is excellent, thanks to the vents positioned in the upper and lower section for air intake.
The vents maintain aerodynamic stability by allowing cool air intake and hot air expulsion.
Each vent provides a discernible difference; when closed, the interior is still and draft-free, and when opened, they provide a rush of air.
Face Shield
The CNS-1 face shield does seem to have better outward visibility than average, mostly noted in the horizontal plane. The optical clarity is further helped by the 3D injection molding process that ensures you've a distortion-free view while riding your bike.
The CNS-1 visor is also UV resistant, and will, therefore, protect you from the sun rays and remove the need for wearing your sunglasses.
Comfort
Comfort levels offered by Shoei Neotec Helmet are hard to beat.
The multi-layer cheek pads provide maximum comfort and stability when riding.
The pads are breathable and have moisture-wicking properties, meaning you’re less likely to get drenched in sweat during the sunny summer.
Additionally, the interior is fully removable, washable, and replaceable.
Pros
- Durable
- Comfortable
- UV protection
- Protective
Cons
- Heavy
Check Shoei Neotec Helmet Price on Amazon
Scorpion AT950 Helmet - Best for Dual Sports
Scorpion AT950 is a modular, flip-u style ADV helmet introduced in 2016.
It’s a bargain purchase, as it’s feature-packed, yet budget-friendly.
It can also be configured to match your riding style.
Features and Benefits
Design
Out of the box, the Scorpion AT950 is everything you would want to have for a modular helmet.
With a fully-dressed wide view face and a rakish visor peak, the look and functionality of the Scorpion AT950 are ideal for any motor-biking adventure.
Safety-Shell Design
The proprietary LG Polycarbonate shell for dual sports is sturdy and great at absorbing a heavy impact during accidents.
The shell is also fitted with dual-density multi-layer EPS that bolsters the impact absorption, so you'll be less likely to get injured in case of an accident.
The material construction is also said to minimize the overall weight of the helmet, so it doesn’t fatigue you even when wearing it for extended periods.
Face Shield
The face shield and visor are what makes this helmet suited for dual sports.
As far as visibility is concerned, this helmet offers a broad field of vision for better peripheral as well as downward vision.
Alongside the easy-to-flip chin bar, this face shield can also be removed, and so, you can use the helmet as a dirt helmet with goggles for the tougher off-road use.
Ventilation System
The aero-tuned vents optimize the flow of cool air into the helmet and hot air from the helmet.
Generally, this helmet feels comfortable and cool during the hot summers.
Comfort on the helmet is further extended by a cushy and soft anti-microbial Kwik-Wick lining. It wicks your sweat away, avoiding your head getting soaked in sweat while at the same time providing an easy place to rest.
The inner lining also pops out for cleaning, and you can also swap it for the thicker cheek pads for greater comfort.
Pros
- Multiple-layers
- Aero-tuned ventilation
- No-fog face shield
- Removable visor
Cons
- Not ideal for off-roading
Check Scorpion AT950 Helmet Price on Amazon
HJC CL-Max 3 Modular Helmet - Best Under $200
The CL-Max 3 is the latest model in the CL-Max line, and it replaces the already popular CL-Max 2.
It's a budget purchase, yet, it's quite functional, and it has some of the features that we find in the premium models.
Features and Benefits
Design
CL-Max 3 is an intermediate oval helmet, meaning it a tad longer front to the back and a little bit narrower down inside.
The oval shape is the most popular design in the American market, as it works or a majority of the users.
Safety-Shell
CL-Max 3 is built with safety in mind, and this can be seen through the shell construction.
The Polycarp shell construction is hard-wearing, meaning it's going to serve you for a long period.
The material is also a tough option that can easily withstand the shocks and absorb impact when you crash so that your head remains fully secure.
Face Shield
The face shield on the CL-Max 3 is built for performance, and it doesn’t sacrifice on the optical clarity or range.
It’s possible to get a generous horizontal dimensional view without any obstruction.
However, the major highlight of the face shield is the sun visor that shields your eyes against the UV rays, which also removes the need for having sun glasses.
Anti-Fog
The pin lock ready face shield on the CL-Max 3 offers a fog-resistant shield that you can put inside the visor.
It's a handy option for the colder mornings or for the rainy days when your face shield tends to fog up.
Ventilation
To provide riders with better aeration within the helmet, HJC outfitted this helmet with several vents that allow the escape of hot air and entry of cool air.
Away from ventilation, this modular helmet has plenty of cutouts and pre-housing units to give you options to use on pretty any of the universal comm systems, including Bluetooth units.
Comfort
The brow mounted interior adds the comfort and ease of use of the CL-Max 3.
Notably, the helmet lacks the snaps, which are a common standard in other helmet foam, so you're saved from the pressure points on your forehead.
The interior also has a nice channel cut out for the inside, which helps in promoting greater ventilation.
Users also love the nice chin curtain, which has a nicer, thicker feel to it, and it promotes a tight closure when in a closed position. It also helps in stopping the wind from pushing up and cuts down on noise.
Pros
- Budget-option
- Durable
- Ventilation
- Comfortable
Cons
- Hefty
Check HJC CL-Max 3 Modular Helmet Price on Amazon
Bell Revolver EVO Helmet - Best for All-Time Use
The Bell Revolver is an all-around modular helmet, providing riders with complete satisfaction, features, and protection.
It's also quite a comfortable unit, and it can fit most head sizes and types.
Features and Benefit
Design
The Revolvers stand apart from your average, run-of-the-mill modular helmets with an angular and modern styling.
Unfortunately, it only comes in a few solid color choices. Nevertheless, the gloss black finish gives the helmet a nice, sharp look.
Away from the coloration and aesthetics, the general quality is decent, including all the moving parts, which I think are appropriate for the price. However, some could probably stand to improve just a touch.
Safety-Shell Design
The beginning of any great design starts with the basic body.
Obviously, streamlining a helmet design for wind resistance is essential, and the Revolver excels in this department.
Material construction is also necessary, and the polycarbonate shell on the Revolver offers a lightweight yet sturdy material, ensuring you’re protected during crashes, and at the same time, you don’t get fatigued from wearing the helmet for extended periods.
The shell is also aerodynamically stable, and it resists buffeting and lifts.
Face Shield
The Revolver uses the Bell "Click Release" face shield, also found on the Bell Vortex and Bell Star. It's among the best removable face shields in the market.
It features a small first opening for defogging during the cold mornings or rainy days.
The Visor is fitted with UV protection technology that shields your eyes from the blaring sunlight rays and removes the need for wearing sunglasses.
Ventilation
Ventilation is necessary for keeping you cool, and with this model, you get an incredible system that cools your entire head and face during the hot summers.
The helmet has vents that you can open for airflow, and close during the winter to provide the optimum temperature conditions on your helmet.
Comfort
In my opinion, the Revolver offers a form-fitting experience, and few of the helmets can match the Revolver comfort.
If you find the right size, you'll be treated to a snug fit, free of pressure on the pain points such as the forehead and temple.
Pros
- Form-fitting
- Durable
- Sunshade
- Speaker facility
Cons
- Noisy
Check Bell Revolver EVO Helmet Price on Amazon
Best Modular Helmet Buying Guide
Modular helmets excel in various fronts, including safety, to appearance.
Still, you need to consider several aspects before purchasing a modular helmet.
This buying guide should help you do that.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Modular Helmet
Safety
Many features determine the overall safety rating of a modular helmet, but here are the most crucial safety elements:
- Chin Bar/ Chin Guard- The safety of a modular helmet revolves around the removable chin bar. Ideally, you want your helmet to come with a chin guard that stays fully locked during impact to avoid leaving your face vulnerable to injuries. It should also be easy to flip up, even when wearing gloves
- Built-in Visors- Modular helmets come with two types of visors: a clear shield and smoke-tinted sun visor. Choose a clear visor with no distortion. The visor should also protect you against UV rays and should resist the buildup of fog.
- Ventilation: Sometimes, the weather can be bad, so choose a helmet with a proper ventilation system and one that can flush out the hot air from inside.
Comfort
While modular helmets are among the most comfortable types of helmets in the market, you need to ensure your choice of helmet suits your needs.
It should contain a sunshade to let you ride in the sun with ease. It should also feature a ventilation system to keep you cool. The interior should also feel soft and comfy.
Size
The three common size options for modular helmets are:
- Intermediate Oval: it's the most common head shape. It's wide in shape, and most North American helmets follow this design.
- Long Oval: It's quite rare, and it's suited for motorcyclists with a significantly longer than wide head. People with longer heads normally feel increased pressure on the forehead when wearing the regular type helmets.
- Round: It’s the rarest modular helmet shape. It’s suited for those whose heads are more spherical than normal. People with the spherical heads normally feel heightened pressure on their temple when wearing the normal helmets.
Style & Design
Beyond the functionality, some riders want a helmet that makes a statement when they roam around the city on their bikes.
Fortunately, it's possible to find a sleek modular helmet that offers styling elements, while remaining protective.
Sizing
If you’ve narrowed down to several choices and found a helmet that works for you, then look for a manufacturer that provides more size options.
The perfect modular helmet should offer a snug fit and should run true to size. It shouldn't cause any discomfort. Instead, it should feel just right. On the fly, the perfect modular helmet should be unnoticeable.
Weight
Modular helmets should be weightless, and this should help to relieve any fatigue that comes with wearing the heavy helmets.
Custom Fit
If you think the shape of your head is unique, or are having a difficult time finding the right helmet size, then look for those that offer a custom fit.
Ideally, such types of helmets should feature a removable liner and cheek pad that lets you swap out the cheek pads and liner for a set that is smaller or larger.
Conclusion
By now, I know you’ve an idea why the best modular helmets are the best choice for riders.
Safety-wise, a modular helmet has almost the same protection level as the full-face helmet. It also features a detachable chin-bar that lets you make it a half-face, too, anytime.
However, granted, there're plenty of modular helmets in the market, but hopefully, our review guide should allow you to make a more informed decision in your next purchase.
Current Best Selling Modular Helmets!
FAQs:
Are modular helmets a good fit?
The modular helmets come in a variety of sizes to ensure a good fit. They also have straps to tighten for firm fitting. You can choose from the small, medium, large, and extra-large sizing options available. Simply check on the sizing chart and pick your ideal size.
Are modular helmets cool?
Yes, the modular helmets feature a careful construction with advanced channeling ventilation systems to ensure the front-to-back airflow flushes heat easily, eliminating hot air from your helmet. This keeps you cool when you have the helmet for a longer time.
Are the helmets durable?
Modular helmets are durable and come from different high-quality materials and advanced technology. This ensures a lightweight but functional helmet to protect your head and face from injuries, water, and mud spills and improve visibility.
Can I use the helmet with goggles?
The large-size helmets work with goggles much easier since you have plenty of space and adjustments to fit the google without interfering with the view. This helps you deal with the scorching sun and bright areas hence protecting your eyes.